Visit Matsumoto, The Japanese Alps
Matsumoto is a small, cosmopolitan city on the edge of the Japanese Alps. Its history dates back to the 8th century but it is most famous for its fantastic castle, known as 'Crow Castle' because of its striking black and white design.
Matsumoto
The Japanese Alps, Japan
Matsumoto is a small but cosmopolitan city on the edge of the Japanese Alps. Its history dates back to the 8th century but it is most famous for its fantastic castle which was built in 1595 and is known as 'Crow Castle' because of its striking black and white design.
Although much of the city is modern, you can still find the traditional lattice-patterned buildings in the old merchant district. Most of these are now craft shops, teashops or restaurants. There are also some excellent museums worth a visit too.
Exploring the Alps
Matsumoto is the gateway to many of the central alps's most enticing winter and summer outdoor sports centres. Kamikochi and Norikura Kogen are not far away and Takayama is just a bus ride over the mountains from Matsumoto.
One of Japan's most famous ski resorts, Hakuba is also easily accessible from Matsumoto.
Other places within The Japanese Alps
More in Matsumoto, The Japanese Alps